New security fencing installed around a historic seafront shelter is sparking renewed calls for the structure to finally be returned to its former glory.

Thanet District Council (TDC) beefed up the fence around the Newgate Gap Sea Shelter in Cliftonville to protect it from vandalism and further damage.

Campaigners are welcoming the move but say enough is enough and are urging the council to finally restore the Edwardian shelter.

Friends of Cliftonville Coastline (FOCC) say heritage in the area has been “neglected for too long” and the group is working on ideas.

Amelia Gregory, from the group, says they hope to introduce a new “attractive and useful space” that visitors and the community can enjoy.

She added: “We’re really pleased to see that the Newgate Gap Sea Shelter has been protected with adequate fencing once more.

“We have been concerned for the some time about the safety of this hazardous structure and recently informed TDC of our plans to purchase fencing with our own funds.

“So, we are really glad that it has been sealed off so quickly so we can now go ahead with serious discussions on renovation.”

But TDC, which owns the structure located in a conservation area off Ethelbert Crescent, says no more work is planned.

Ward councillor Alan Currie (Lab) says the building cannot be left alone any longer.

He said: “We feel our plan is a good way forward in the short term and would be an asset to the local community instead of an eyesore.

“If the building had not been listed then I believe the roof would have been removed long ago.”

Cllr Currie says he has spoken with health and safety officers at TDC who fear the roof is a health hazard and structurally unsound.

He added: “The rotten pigeon infested wooden roof may have to be removed first purely on health and safety grounds.

“If this was done the metal pillars and surrounding area could be cleaned up and a removable canvas structure acquired and used for temporary events such as art installations or Cliftonville in Bloom.

“The site would then not only be safe but ready for any eventual funding for restoration.”

A TDC spokesman said: “The shelter was found to be unstable and Heras fencing was installed to prevent usage.

“Subsequently, due to persistent damage and vandalism, the fencing became destabilised.

“In a bid to prevent further damage and to protect the public, Thanet District Council has now installed more robust fencing. No further work has been commissioned at this time.”

New flower beds are being planted by the group around Ethelbert Crescent as residents make strides towards improving the area.

FOCC are aiming to dig up 10 new flower beds to make the seafront more attractive as it continues to push for the restoration of the historic Newgate Gap Sea Shelter.

Miss Gregory added: “Every weekend for the past few months Friends Of Cliftonville Coastline members have been digging and planting up new community flower beds just in front of the shelter.

“We hope they brighten up this derelict corner of our wonderful and unique seafront, and that many more improvements are soon to follow.”

• What should happen to the shelter? Write to thanetextra@thekmgroup.co.uk